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"One of Albuquerque's busiest intersections that was crime-ridden for years is seeing some improvements.Officers started doing extra patrols and undercover work at San Mateo and Central streets six months ago.Police said they are starting to see the benefits of their work. They said the crime in that area is down 30 percent.The intersection at San Mateo and Central streets is one of Albuquerque's busiest for both commuters and police, and safety is a top concern.\"I saw guys fighting over there literally kicking each other on the street,\" said Patrice Smith.In the last few months, an increased police presence has led to hundreds of felony arrests for drugs and prostitution.Smith, who catches the bus at the location several times a week, said she has noticed a difference.\"There's less homeless people, less beggars, less people sleeping and being obnoxious,\" Smith said.Police said the situation is also improving because they've started to work with nearby businesses, teaching them how to be proactive.\"We've taken a change of mindset,\" said John Lannon, with Octopus Car Wash.Octopus Car Wash recently put up \"No Trespassing\" signs and won't allow panhandling on the property. The manager said customers are more at ease.\"We've eliminated that crime element here. It's become a safer place for us,\" Lannon said.The business also cleaned up the landscaping and added lights to deter criminal activity.Even though it could take some time to achieve, the goal is for this area to see a complete turnaround.\"My hope is that everyone can feel safe coming around this street and not worry about any intimidation or violence that could occur to them at that point in time,\" Lannon said.Police said they'll keep patrolling the area a few times a week until they see a dramatic and consistent decrease in crime.There will be a community meeting about crime prevention at the Highland Theater at San Mateo and Central streets on Aug. 19 at 7 p.m."^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.koat.com/article/busy-albuquerque-intersection-safer/5031023>